Busts of Chairman Hyukyoung Choi and His Spouse Unveiled at Yeungnam University Following 1.05 Billion KRW Donation

On May 21, Yeungnam University (President Choi Oechul) held an unveiling ceremony for the busts of Hyukyoung Choi, Chairman of the Hyukyoung Choi Scholarship Foundation, and his spouse, Ji Gyeomja.

The newly unveiled busts have been installed in the donor recognition area outside the central library of Yeungnam University, where they will remain as a symbol commemorating their long-standing dedication and generosity to their alma mater. Chairman Hyukyoung Choi, an alumnus of the Department of Civil Engineering, class of 1963, began his support with a donation of 100 million KRW in 2007 and has since contributed a total of approximately 1.05 billion KRW in development funds to the university, providing ongoing support for younger students and making significant contributions to the university’s advancement.

Unveiling Ceremony of Chairman Hyukyoung Choi and Spouse's Bust

After graduating from Yeungnam University, Chairman Choi began his career at Shinwon Development Co., Ltd., and contributed to national industrial development by working on overseas construction projects, including the third overseas construction project at the Khorramshahr Port in Iran. During his tenure at Samsung C&T, he was active in the Middle East, including Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Libya, focusing on securing overseas contracts. Later, he founded Samwoo Construction Co., Ltd., leading the construction of major domestic infrastructure such as expressways, subways, and industrial complexes, and played a key role in laying the foundation for Korea’s construction industry.

He also had a remarkable commitment to education and talent development. In 2013, he established the Hyukyoung Choi Scholarship Foundation, providing scholarships to over 20 high schools and universities across the country. He has become a life mentor to his scholars, offering not only financial support but also continuous communication and guidance on their careers and lives. In recognition of these contributions, he was awarded the Order of Civil Merit, Moran Medal, by the government in 2024, and received an honorary doctorate in engineering from Yeungnam University in 2021.

In particular, he has played a significant role in improving the campus environment and creating symbolic facilities for his alma mater, including fully funding the construction of the Cheonma Tunnel Fountain at the main gate of Yeungnam University and the installation of the large "Big Time" clock on the exterior wall of the central library. This bust was created to ensure that his contributions and spirit of sharing are remembered for a long time to come.

At the unveiling ceremony, Chairman Hyukyoung Choi said, "I am truly grateful to my family, who have always been by my side, and to Yeungnam University, which nurtured my dreams during my school days. I feel both grateful and a heavy sense of responsibility as the busts of my wife and me are erected at my alma mater today. I have continued the scholarship program to repay the kindness I have received from society and my alma mater. In the future, I will continue to offer not only financial support but also sincere encouragement and support so that younger students can realize their dreams."

Choi Oechul, President of Yeungnam University, said, "It is very meaningful to unveil the busts of Chairman Hyukyoung Choi and Mrs. Ji Gyeomja today. I sincerely thank them for their deep affection and generosity toward their alma mater and younger students over many years. Chairman Choi is not only a pioneer in the development of Korea’s construction industry but also a person who has devoted himself to nurturing talent through education, serving as a great role model for younger generations. As expressed in Yeungnam University’s slogan, 'Eyes on the future, challenges to the world,' I will do my utmost to ensure that their noble intentions become a solid foundation for our university to cultivate talent that contributes to humanity. As president, I will continue to do my best to carry on their warm spirit and dedication to nurturing talent," he said.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.